India is fast becoming a global education hotspot in 2025, offering world-class, affordable education across diverse fields like engineering, medicine, business, data science, and the liberal arts. Renowned for prestigious institutions like the IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS, India now also welcomes foreign universities setting up campuses, including Deakin University and University of Wollongong from Australia at the GIFT City in Gujarat. These international collaborations provide global academic exposure within India’s dynamic and culturally rich environment. With English-taught programs, affordable living, extensive scholarship options, and a flexible curriculum under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, India is an ideal destination for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Students also benefit from the opportunity to study in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies with emerging global career prospects. Choosing to study in India in 2025 means combining academic excellence, global connectivity, and transformative personal growth.
Student life in India is made easier and more enjoyable with the right apps and access to affordable dining options. For transport and navigation, Ola, Uber, and Google Maps help students travel safely and affordably across cities. Managing finances is simple with digital wallets like PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm. For food delivery, Zomato and Swiggy offer budget-friendly meals, student discounts, and quick delivery from local eateries. Popular academic support apps such as Byju’s, Toppr, and Google Drive enhance study efficiency. When it comes to dining out, students can enjoy affordable meals at well-known chains like Domino’s, Subway, Haldiram’s, and local favourites such as Saravana Bhavan, Bikanervala, and countless regional cafes offering thalis and combo meals. With the right tools and smart choices, students in India can enjoy a comfortable, cost-effective, and enriching academic journey.
When applying to study in India, international students must provide specific documents for university admission and visa processing. Requirements may differ slightly based on the program, university, or home country, but the following are generally required:
Document | Description |
---|---|
Passport | A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity. |
Student Visa | A Student Visa (S-1 category) issued by the Indian Embassy/High Commission. |
Letter of Admission | Official acceptance letter from an Indian university or college. |
Academic Transcripts | Certified copies of academic records from previously attended institutions. |
English Language Proficiency | IELTS/TOEFL (for English-taught programs), or a proficiency certificate from school. |
Financial Proof | Bank statements, affidavit of support, or scholarship confirmation. |
Photographs | Recent passport-sized photographs (as per visa guidelines). |
Medical Certificate | Health certificate including HIV test results (mandatory in some cases). |
Visa Application Form | Completed online application via the Indian Visa portal. |
Equivalency Certificate | From the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) if applying for postgraduate study. |
International students need to apply for an S-1 Student Visa to study in India. The process is straightforward and usually handled by the Indian embassy in your home country.
Step | Description |
---|---|
Visa Type | S-1 Student Visa for full-time academic programs in India. |
Application Fee | Varies by country; typically ranges from USD 75 to USD 150. |
Visa Duration | Issued for the duration of the course or up to 5 years; renewable in India. |
Application Timeline | Apply after receiving the admission letter; processing usually takes 1–3 weeks. |
Online Application | Complete and submit the visa form on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in. |
Medical Report Requirement | Some embassies require a recent medical certificate, including HIV test results. |
FRRO Registration | Mandatory registration with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival. |
Visa Extension | Extensions are handled locally through the FRRO if studies continue beyond the visa period. |
Currently, international students in India are not allowed to work during their studies. However, internships as part of academic programs are permitted. After graduation, students may explore employment opportunities by switching to an Employment Visa (E-visa), subject to employer sponsorship and eligibility. India’s expanding job market in sectors like IT, healthcare, research, and renewable energy can offer post-study career potential. Additionally, India is actively exploring new student visa policies to attract global talent, which could offer future stay-back options.
Cost of Studying and Living in India (2025 Guide for International Students)
India is one of the most affordable and diverse study destinations in the world, offering quality education at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
Tuition in India is budget-friendly, with numerous options in public and private institutions.
Type of Institution | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
---|---|
Public Universities (India) | ₹25,000 – ₹100,000/year |
Private Universities (India) | ₹150,000 – ₹600,000/year |
Professional Courses (e.g., Engineering, MBA) | ₹200,000 – ₹800,000/year |
Medical Programs | ₹400,000 – ₹2,500,000/year (higher in private institutions) |
Fees vary by university, program, and state. Some institutions offer scholarships and international fee waivers.
India offers a wide range of cost options depending on the city and lifestyle.
Expense Type | Cost (INR) |
---|---|
Average Monthly Living Cost | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 |
Estimated Annual Living Cost | ₹120,000 – ₹300,000 |
Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (INR) |
---|---|
Accommodation (Shared) | ₹4,000 – ₹10,000 |
Food & Groceries | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
Utilities & Internet | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
Transportation | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
Personal Expenses | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
Cities like Pune, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad are more affordable than metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
International students on specific visas are not permitted to work part-time under current regulations
Some internships may be available through the university or sponsored projects
Volunteering and campus roles may be allowed depending on institution policies
Government programs like ICCR Scholarships and Study in India (SII) Scholarships
Institutional scholarships available for merit and need-based applicants
Some private foundations also offer aid for international students
Degrees recognized globally, especially in medicine, engineering, and technology
English is the primary language of instruction
Rich cultural heritage, diverse communities, and low cost of living
Opportunities to explore yoga, wellness, IT, and research-based programs
Get expert guidance on course selection, scholarship support, visa application, and cultural adaptation from our counselling team!